Moving from Phoenix, AZ to Seattle, WA

 

Done with the desert? Discover a new gem in the Emerald City 

As different as they are, Phoenix, AZ and Seattle, WA share an important distinction: They are two of fastest-growing cities in U.S. And they aren’t just popular places to call home — the two metro areas host a combined 60 million visitors per year! 

If you’re looking to pull up your Phoenix roots and start a new life in Seattle, we wish you the best! Learn more about what makes Seattle unique and find out how to start your journey with a company that can save you time, money and hassle on your long-distance move. 

 

It may feel like a tight squeeze at first 

If Seattle seems crowded to you, you’re not wrong. It ranks among the top 20 cities in U.S. population density with almost 9,300 people per square mile. We’re talking nearly 800,000 residents sharing just 84 square miles! That’s a far cry from the urban sprawl of Phoenix, where 1.7 million residents are spread out over 517 square miles, resulting in a much lower density (3,300). 

Also keep in mind that, like Phoenix, Seattle is a popular tourist destination that is frequently busy. Much like snowbirds who flock to Phoenix in the winter, tourists and those with second homes converge on Seattle in the summer to enjoy the city at its peak. 

 

Scaling back on sunshine will be an adjustment 

The subject of climate between Phoenix and Seattle comes down to personal preference. If you’re a sun worshipper, know that those 300 sunny days per year in the desert will become about 160 in Seattle. Coping with gray skies and drizzle much of the time can be challenging, but consider some of the positives: 

  • Seattle never gets too hot or too cold (typical temps range between 40 and 80 degrees) 
  • You don’t really need air conditioning (it’s a must in Phoenix) 
  • It’s comfortable to be outside year-round (Phoenix gets dangerously hot for half the year) 
  • Lush green surroundings and clean air (Phoenix has a different type of beauty, but also some of the worst air quality in the country) 

Did you know: Despite its rain-soaked reputation, Seattle gets less annual precipitation than other major metro areas like New York City, Boston, Philadelphia and Miami! 

 

There are plenty of entertainment options 

Seattle is widely known for its live music and arts scenes, but it also rivals Phoenix as a sports town. Sports fans can immerse themselves in the NFL’s Seahawks, MLB’s Mariners, NHL’s Kraken, MLS’ Sounders and University of Washington athletics.  

Active residents have easy access to hiking trails, parks and many other green spaces within the city. Winter sports enthusiasts are just a couple of hours away from several ski resorts. 

                           

Savor the flavor of fresh seafood and other delicacies 

While you may miss the world-class Mexican dishes and top-shelf barbecue found in Phoenix, prepare for some awesome foodie fun in your new city! Seattle is known globally as a haven for coffee connoisseurs, but don’t miss the seafood — especially the local salmon, oysters and Pike Place Chowder — or the pho (Vietnamese beef noodle soup pronounced “fuh”). 

 

Tap into a thriving economy 

Seattle is home to five Fortune 500 companies, including Amazon (which employees 75,000 people in the region), Starbucks and Nordstrom. Other top employers include Costco Wholesale, Providence Health Services, Microsoft and T-Mobile. 

 

Not sure where to begin? U-Pack can help! 

Moving from Phoenix to Seattle is a huge task, so it makes sense to find the best possible help. U-Pack® provides customized long-distance moving solutions throughout all 50 states. And the best part? We’ll handle the driving! 

With a click or a call, one of our professional consultants can put together a plan that fits both your needs and your budget. Get your free quote today.